Algeria rallied to secure a 2-1 victory over Jordan, effectively knocking the World Cup debutants out of the tournament with a match still to play. The comeback was fueled by second-half goals from substitute Nadhir Benbouali and Amine Gouiri.
Benbouali’s header equalized after Nizar Al-Rashdan had put Jordan in the lead during the first half. Gouiri then netted the winner in a chaotic goalmouth situation just eight minutes before the final whistle, revitalizing Algeria’s campaign following their earlier 3-0 defeat to Argentina.
This win places Algeria alongside Austria with three points in Group J, ensuring that the defending champions Argentina advance as group winners after their 2-0 victory over the Austrians earlier in the day.
Algeria’s Tactical Adjustments
Algeria’s coach Vladimir Petkovic opted to start veteran forward Riyad Mahrez, who had been benched against Argentina, and his presence proved crucial against a defensively solid Jordan team that relied on counterattacks. Mahrez squandered an early opportunity when he failed to control a beautifully lofted pass from Hicham Boudaoui.
Despite this, he soon had another chance when he found himself one-on-one with Jordan goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila, but his chipped shot was deflected by the keeper.
Jordan took the lead in the 36th minute, a result of clever interplay and a bit of luck when Algeria’s Ramiz Zerrouki lost possession. Musa al-Taamari’s shot diverted to Al-Rashdan, who struck it cleanly into the lower right corner.
Second-Half Comeback
Petkovic made impactful substitutions at halftime, bringing on Nabil Bentaleb and Benbouali, which led to an increase in Algeria’s attacking intensity. Benbouali capitalized on a Mahrez corner in the 69th minute, leaping above the Jordan defenders to direct a glancing header into the corner of the net.
Algeria took the lead thirteen minutes later from another set piece. Substitute Anis Hadj Moussa delivered a curling corner that was deflected off Jordan’s goalscorer Al-Rashdan, allowing Gouiri to poke in the decisive goal.
Looking Ahead
This victory sets the stage for a high-stakes rematch against Austria, 44 years after the infamous “Disgrace of Gijon.” During the 1982 World Cup, allegations arose that Austria and West Germany conspired in their group match to eliminate Algeria.
Both teams denied any wrongdoing, and FIFA subsequently exonerated them. Algeria now has a chance for retribution when they face Austria in Kansas City on Saturday. Meanwhile, Jordan will be up against Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, who has scored all five of their goals in this World Cup thus far.
